Thebes Quote by Diana Wilder
““There were monsters abroad, there was no denying it - but what of the thousands of people in Thebes and in the rest of Egypt who had not robbed tombs? The tally of those who had not bowed to greed far outweighed that of those who had. It was easy to forget that fact amid the horror of the acts of the guilty. Wenatef had lost sight it for a time, but now it was as though he were surrounded by a great, silent multitude: the honorable and faithful ones who had not done wrong.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Thebes and Egypt (fictional work), author unknown
The quote contrasts the many honest people with the few greedy ones, urging us not to forget the majority's integrity amid visible crimes.
In simple terms: Most people are honest despite a few bad actors.
Key Takeaway
Remember the silent majority of integrity.
Themes
honesty
integrity
perception
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
reflective
philosophical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- ethical discussions
- community building
Key Concepts
social psychology
morality
collective behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies better recognize and honor the honest majority?
- What mechanisms protect the integrity of the many?
A Different Perspective
The quote may overgeneralize and ignore systemic factors that enable greed.
